Alaró is a small inland town of Mallorca, located in a beautiful valley at the foot of the Sierra de Tramuntana mountain range.
Although not considered to be one of the most important touristic places on the island, you should come and take a walk through its amazing cobbled streets. The unexpected and beautiful corners waiting for you throughout the town spread a latent sense of peacefulness and tranquillity, ideal for those wishing to get away from the commotion of other more crowded areas.
Olive trees undoubtedly stand out in the landscape of Alaró, but you will also see abundant flocks of sheep in the local farms, almond trees with blooming flowers that decorate the fields, resulting in a fascinating spectacle during the flowering season.
How to get there
You must take the highway towards Alcúdia from Palma airport and exit upon the Consell – Binissalem - Alaró diversion. Continue to follow the signs and you will soon reach the town.
The train line that runs from Palma to Inca has a stop in the town of Alaró.
In case that you are coming to town by car and in order to avoid going around the streets as many them lack parking spaces, we recommend parking in the streets on the left, right after the gas station at the entrance or continue to the public parking next to the Casal son Tugores.
What to see
Plaça de la Vila or Main Square
It is the busiest area in town, especially on market days. Here, you may sit down for breakfast, have a coffee, ice-cream or eat in one of the restaurants while enjoying the multicultural atmosphere. Moreover, you will find some buildings representative of the place, such as the town hall and Sant Bartomeu Parish.
Alaró Castle
This castle is the main touristic attraction in town. It is located at the top of a mountain called Puig d'Alaro. The views that visitors can enjoy from this fascinating place make it worthwhile making the effort to climb to the top. Once up there, you can see the ruins of a Christian fortification and the famous castle. You can also get there by car and by reaching the Es Verger Restaurant car park, to continue on foot from there. Continue reading below to learn more about the route to this place.
Toni Mora’s Workshop
Toni Mora is worldwide famous for his handmade cowboy boots. His workshop is an example of the importance footwear has in the town’s economy.
Weekly market
It takes place every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. It is set up in the Main Square and you can find clothing, artisan products, fresh fruit and vegetables, sausages and sobrassada on the many market stalls.
Los d'Amunts Neighbourhood
It is Alaró’s oldest area. With time, it has been pushed aside from the rest of the town. The square called Cabrit i Bassa is the central point of this neighbourhood. Once here, do not miss out on the opportunity to walk through the streets and enjoy the special architecture; let yourself be carried away by its charismatic, warm and peaceful atmosphere.
What to do
Being close to the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, Alaró and its surroundings become the ideal spot for cycling and hiking.
Ascent to Alaró Castle
This excursion is highly appreciated by visitors due to the stunning views created by the spectacular and unique mountain, views you can enjoy firsthand with this hike.
There are 2 options for this excursion:
- Short route: as mentioned above, drive towards the castle and reach the Es Verger Restaurant. You will find a large car park where you can park your vehicle. From there, the tour will last 1 hour and 15 minutes. Climb the paved road until you reach a dirt area and a dirt road that goes directly to the castle.
- Long route: the on-foot route starts in the village. Follow the signs. The ascent will last a little less than 2 hours.
Route from Alaró to Orient
It is an easy excursion, lasting 2.5 hours, which can be done by the whole family. The route ends in the small village of Orient, which is itself a highly recommended stop. This town belongs to Bunyola municipality.
Where to eat
Alaró’s gastronomic offer is quite rich and delivers different types of cuisine. In the square called Plaza de la Vila and also in the surrounding streets, you can find restaurants serving typical Mallorcan, Italian and Asian food, as well as different tapas bars and a Gastrobar. There are also several coffee shops and places to relax and have a drink in the evening.
Where to lodge
Alaró is a fantastic destination to stay as it is away from the hustle of the most touristic areas, but at the same time, it is well connected to those places of interest you will certainly want to visit during your vacation. In this village, you will have access to beautiful boutique hotels, several rural hotels, 2 hostels, and some 3 and 4 star hotels. Some of them have a swimming-pool and spa.
Alaró Castle also offers rooms to the public.
Check Available Accommodations
Events
The Craft Fair in Alaró takes place in October, concentrating plenty of local craft products.
Sant Roc festivities are celebrated the week before August 16th. During these days, a great variety of cultural activities, games, parades of giants and children's activities take place, while the sound of music livens up the town with concerts and street parties during the day. One of the nights is dedicated to art and is locally known as Alart.
Surroundings
Come and get to know Binissalem, a point of reference in the island wine production.
You will find the town of Orient very close to Alaró, which it is also a worthwhile stop. There you can wander its streets and relish the stunning landscape as it is immersed in nature.
Santa María del Camí is a 5-minute drive away, a lively town, especially on weekends, when the main avenue is full of people looking for a mouth-watering menu in its many bars and restaurants. They are sure to find it here.
Since it has a train station, you can leave your car behind and forget about parking in the big capital. You can take the train line to Plaza España – Palma and in a matter of 30 minutes, make the most of the city by visiting the main touristic attractions.
